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LeBron James might become free agent for first time since 2018, says NBA Insider on Lakers star’s future

Originally posted on FirstSportz | By Ubong Archibong | Last updated 4/30/24

LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers saw their season end at the hands of the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets, and the four-time NBA champion’s future with the franchise is up in the air. This is according to an NBA Insider who shared what he believed James would do next.

Brian Windhorst on ESPN’s “Get Up” said that LeBron James, who is in the final year of his contract, could either accept his player option or choose to test the market as an unrestricted free agent. Furthermore, he said he thinks he will work out a new deal during the summer.

I do think LeBron intends to opt out of his contract and become a free agent for the first time since 2018. I think that will apply a little bit of pressure to the Lakers. Brian Windhorst said on ESPN’s Get Up

Furthermore, the Insider talked about James’ motivation as he was pondering free agency. First, to put pressure on the Purple and Gold to upgrade their roster, second, to possibly have them draft his son, Bronny, and third so he can receive a multi-year contract with a no-trade clause.

"I think LeBron intends to opt out of his contract and become a free agent for the first time since 2018."

@WindhorstESPN pic.twitter.com/4LkT1tMFmW
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) April 30, 2024

However, he noted that James still wishes to stay with the Lakers. Fresh from being eliminated by the Nuggets, he ended the season averaging 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game.

LeBron James declines to say if he played his last game with the Lakers

LeBron James, after the loss to the Nuggets, said he is undecided on his future with the LA Lakers. After the game and speaking to the press, he opted not to respond to the question of if he played his last game for the franchise.

He also took to the popular social media platform, X (formerly known as Twitter) to reaffirm his earlier statements.

I’ve seen, heard a lot of reports about my future. I said it last night and I’ll say it again. I do not know yet as I’m only thinking about spending time with my family & friends! When I know after speaking with the fam, my counsel as well as my representation about it then you guys will know. Until then. Love. LeBron James wrote on X

However, when asked how he would approach the decision, he said he doesn’t have an answer because he hasn’t given it a thought but he would sit down with his agent, Rich Paul, and family to decide what’s best for his career.

well as my representation about it then you guys will know. Until then . Love
— LeBron James (@KingJames) May 1, 2024

Furthermore, James has until June 29 to choose the option of either opting into the final year of his contract, which is worth $51.4 million, or becoming an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career. His last game with the Lakers this season saw him score 30 points, create 11 assists, and make 9 rebounds.

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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